Is there a more appropriate saying than a “pain in the neck”? If you have a desk job, then most likely you’ve experienced neck pain or tightness before.
I hate to say it, but you can’t stretch your way out of this situation. It might feel good temporarily but in order to make permanent change we have to strengthen instead of stretch.
Today I’m going to show you a simple exercise that you can do anytime, anywhere to strengthen your neck in all the ways it’s capable of moving. Stronger neck means no more tightness!
HOW NECK PAIN STARTS & HOW TO GET IT TO GO AWAY
Tightness or pain in the neck is a signal from your nervous system that something is not quite right. Think of it as a warning, telling you that you need to strengthen the tissue around the neck so those tissues can become more resilient. When this gets strong and can move in all the directions it’s capable of, pain and tightness will dissipate.
A FEW TIPS BEFORE YOU START
This exercise moves your neck through all of its pain-free ranges of motion. Pain-free is key here. You don’t want to cause any pain or pinching while doing this exercise. If you feel any of this, go around the pinch and then continue on your path. You’ll see what I mean I’m today’s video.
One more tip is to go slow with this movement and be in the moment while you’re doing it. Feel every little nook and cranny that your neck can move into. The more connected you are to the movement, the quicker improvements will be made.
You’ll see that I’ll be doing the exercise in a tall kneeling position. You can do that or feel free to this sitting or standing. Just try not to move the rest of your body while you do it. Feel free to do these every single day, and even multiple times throughout the day for maximum results.
Alright, let’s dive in!
BULLETPROOF THE REST OF YOUR BODY
For even more of my favorite mobility exercises to bulletproof your body, click the link below where you can get my 3 must-have mobility moves for free. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’re my all-time favorite.
ABOUT COACH MATT PIPPIN
Matt is a Strength and Mobility Coach with over 15 years experience in his field and has coached over a thousand professional, collegiate and everyday athletes with the goal to help them move, feel and perform at their highest level. He's incredibly passionate about bringing simple and effective online mobility training programs to everyone who wants to take control of their self care and make lasting change. CLICK HERE to learn more.
Certifications:
NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Level 3: Fascial Stretch Specialist
Level 1: Institute of Motion Health Coach
Certified FRC Mobility Specialist (FRCms)
Level 1 Kinstretch Instructor
Weck Method Qualified